This October, EuropaBio’s European Forum for Industrial Biotechnology and the Biobased Economy (EFIB) brings together a panel of multinational CEOs to discuss the evolution of a world leading EU bioeconomy.

The bioeconomy concept has never been higher on the EU agenda for its role in helping develop a competitive, innovative and prosperous society by providing sustainable, smart and inclusive growth and jobs, and by meeting the needs of a growing population. At its heart is the transition from a fossil fuel-driven economy to one based increasingly on a mix of renewable biological resources.

Debate will cover the entire value chain, from the production of biomass and its conversion into food and bio-based products via innovative and efficient technologies, all driven by industrial biotechnology (IB).

This year, the event takes place in Düsseldorf, Germany, and will gather an audience of approximately 500 international policy makers, captains of industry, NGOs, journalists and financiers in a high level forum to provide a snapshot of new growth, innovation, initiatives, partnerships and policy in IB and the biobased economy for Europe.

Commenting on the event, Joanna Dupont-Inglis, Director for Industrial Biotech at EuropaBio said: “EFIB is now renowned by a global audience as the annual EU meeting place for business and policy on Industrial Biotech and the biobased economy. This year’s event takes place at a vibrant and dynamic time for the industry. For example, we are in the midst of preparation of proposals for EU-wide Public Private Partnerships on Biobased Industries and on Resource Efficiency in the Processing Industry.”

Asked about the role that these partnerships might play in future EU Research and Innovation for the sector, she added “The partnerships, developed under the European Commission’s new framework for Research and Innovation, Horizon 2020, have the potential to help bridge the EU‟s „innovation valley of death‟ between scientific excellence and commercial success through sustainable solutions. Set these developments in the context of an evolving future Common Agricultural Policy and a new EU Bioeconomy Strategy and it’s clear to see that there’s a great deal to discuss.”

Conference speakers will include EU Commissioner for Research, Innovation and Science, Máire Geoghegan-Quinn, and the high level CEO panel will feature: